In smaller bases across Helmand province, soldiers more used to eating ration packs had hot food served by Army chefs flown out to cook. Many of the smaller patrol bases in Helmand were witnessing their last Christmas festivities as they are handed over to Afghan forces and British troops pull out.

(Ben Farmer for the Telegraph)

David Cameron announced last week that the British deployment to Afghanistan will have fallen to around 5,200 by Christmas 2013. All British combat troops will have withdrawn by the end of 2014.

Military sources said the Prince, who is nearing the end of a four month tour as an Apache helicopter co-pilot with 622 Sqn, 3 Regiment Army Air Corps, had marked Christmas just like any of the other troops.

(PA)

Bases also put on activities including carol services, pantomime and sporting competitions.

At Lashkar Gah, soldiers are expected to take part in the Lash Dash, a 5km Christmas Day fun run with prizes for the best costumes.

In Britain’s main base in Kabul, Camp Souter, around 150 British troops, mainly from 2 Signal Regiment, were served lunch by the senior officers. Canadian and Polish troops stationed at the base joined the celebrations.

(PA)

Lt Col Andrew Lee, commanding officer, said: “On Christmas Day we have still got do the same sort of stuff, but somehow you have got to mark the day. It passes by in a flash and Boxing Day is a normal day.”

Hundreds of parcels of presents and care packages have arrived in Afghanistan in recent weeks and many diners were modelling Christmas hats and jumpers sent from home.

Rev Martin Evans, chaplain at the base, said technology had made Christmas away from home easier for the troops. He said he and many of his comrades intended to talk to their families via Skype and even watch their children open their presents.